Evaluation of antidiabetic and hypolipidemic activity of Barleria cristata Linn. leaves in alloxan-induced diabetic rats

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the antidiabetic and hypolipidemic action of leaf extract of Barleria cristata Linn in rats. Diabetes was induced in the rats by a single intraperitoneal (IP) injection of alloxan (150 mg/kg) and randomly divided into 7 groups. Animals were treated with low (250 mg/kg) and high (500 mg/kg) doses of ethyl acetate leaf extract (EALE) and hydro-alcoholic leaf extract (HALE) up to 21 days. The body weight and blood glucose level (BGL) were measured on weekly basis. The rats were killed under mild ether anesthesia on 21st day, blood and the vital organ were collected to estimate biochemical parameters and to study histopathological changes. A single-dose administration of alloxan induced hyperglycemia in all the groups. A regular increase in BGL was observed in toxic control groups when compared with the normal control. Daily oral administration of rats with extracts (HALE and EALE) and standard drug (Glimepiride, 5 mg/kg), reduced elevated BGL significantly (p < 0.001), and body weight was regained in diabetic rats. The extract treatment also improved the normal functioning of the liver and kidneys as evidenced by the restoration of the biochemical profile. The study revealed that B. cristata possesses promising antidiabetic and hypolipidemic activity.

Polyherbal mixture ameliorates hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia and histopathological changes of pancreas, kidney and liver in a rat model of type 1 diabetes

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

One of the commonly prescribed 'anti-diabetic' polyherbal mixtures by European herbalists is made of Rubus fruticosus and Vaccinium myrtillus leaves, Potentilla erecta roots, Geum urbanum aerial parts and Phaseolus vulgaris pods.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical composition, antioxidant capacity, potential toxicity, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, nephroprotective and hepatoprotective activities of this polyherbal mixture decoction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The phytochemical composition was evaluated using HPLC-UV. The antioxidant activity was assessed using the DPPH test. Potential toxicity was evaluated using the acute and sub-chronic oral toxicity method. Diabetes was induced in Wistar female rats with a single intraperitoneal injection of alloxan monohydrate (150 mg/kg). The animals whose blood glucose was >20 mmol/L for 14 consecutive days were considered diabetic. For the next 14 days, D-10 and D-20 groups were treated with the polyherbal mixture (10 and 20 g of dry plant material/kg, respectively). I and M were control groups treated with insulin glargine (13 IU/kg) and metformin (150 mg/kg), respectively. Healthy control (HC) and diabetic control (DC) groups were treated with water. The blood glucose level was measured on days 14, 21 and 28. Lipid profile analysis was done on day 28. Pancreas, kidney and liver histopathology was evaluated using the H&E and Masson's trichrome staining. The liver tissue was additionally tested for PAS-positive cells.

RESULTS

The HPLC-UV analysis revealed the presence of quinic, gallic and caftaric acid, arbutin, rutin, trifolin, astragalin, hyperoside, isoquercetin and quercitrin. The antioxidant activity of the extract was higher than the reference's one (p < 0.01). Treatment with the polyherbal mixture (10 and 20 g/kg) has shown no toxic effects. No major decline in blood sugar was recorded in I and M groups compared to the DC one (22.86 ± 2.58, 28.5 ± 0.42 and 27.82 ± 0.9 mmol/L, respectively). The polyherbal mixture lowered the blood glucose level to the normal value (8.64 ± 4.09, 5.26 ± 1.3 and 6.76 ± 1.54 mmol/L in D-10, D-20 and HC groups, respectively). Furthermore, it decreased the levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, VLDL, LDL, atherogenic and cardiovascular risk indices (p < 0.001) compared to the DC group. In addition, the extract restored histopathological changes of the pancreas, kidneys and liver to the healthy animal level.

CONCLUSION

Treatment with the polyherbal mixture extract was more effective than the standard drugs (insulin and metformin) in the amelioration of hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and histopathological changes of the pancreas, kidney and liver tissue.

Hypoglycemic and Hypolipidemic Swords: Synthesis and In-vivo Biological Assessment of 5-benzylidene-2,4-thiazolidinediones

Thiazolidinedione (TZD), being a privileged scaffold, has been known as a significant structural moiety of antidiabetic drugs. TZD has been known to improve glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) by increasing insulin sensitivity in the body. A novel series of 5-benzylidene 2,4-thiazolidinedione derivatives were designed, synthesized (V1-V28), and structurally confirmed by different spectroscopic techniques such as FTIR, ¹H NMR, ¹³C NMR, and Mass spectrometry. Upon the safety assessment of the synthesized molecules in non-transformed hepatocytes by MTT reduction assay, these were found non-toxic. These derivatives were then further evaluated for their antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic properties in a high-fat diet and low dose of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Altogether, seven biochemical parameters were analyzed, namely blood glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, HDL-cholesterol, and glycosylated hemoglobin in serum by standard methods. Four synthetic molecules (V2, V4, V5, and V20) possessed significant hypoglycaemic and hypolipidemic activity as compared to the positive control pioglitazone. Moreover, the histopathological studies of the heart and liver revealed no significant toxicity. Two representative compounds V2 and V4, were evaluated for their PPARγ activation potential, demonstrating that they were partial PPARγ agonists, thus confirming our designing hypothesis. Based on the results obtained, we assume that these compounds have the potential to be developed as future antidiabetic agents.

The potential role of sesquiterpene lactones isolated from medicinal plants in the treatment of the metabolic syndrome - A review

Metabolic syndrome comprises a cluster of metabolic disorders related to the development of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus. In latter years, plant secondary metabolites have become of special interest because of their potential role in preventing and managing metabolic syndrome. Sesquiterpene lactones constitute a large and diverse group of biologically active compounds widely distributed in several medicinal plants used for the treatment of metabolic disorders. The structural diversity and the broad spectrum of biological activities of these compounds drew significant interests in the pharmacological applications. This review describes selected sesquiterpene lactones that have been experimentally validated for their biological activities related to risk factors of metabolic syndrome, together with their mechanisms of action. The potential beneficial effects of sesquiterpene lactones discussed in this review demonstrate that these substances represent remarkable compounds with a diversity of molecular structure and high biological activity, providing new insights into the possible role in metabolic syndrome management.

In vitro and in vivo hypolipidemic properties of the aqueous extract of Spirulina platensis, cultivated in colored flasks under artificial illumination

BACKGROUND

Spirulina is blue-green algae that grows mainly in tropical and subtropical lakes and is commonly used due to its nutritional features including high concentrations of protein, vitamins, mineral salts, carotenoids and antioxidants. This study aimed to investigate the anti-hypercholesterolemic potential of aqueous extract of Spirulina platensis cultivated in different colored flasks under artificial illumination; in vitro and in the diet induced hypercholesterolemic Swiss albino mice.

METHODS

Spirulina platensis was cultivated in red, blue, green and colorless Erlenmeyer flasks containing Zarrouk's medium under aerobic conditions, with incessant illumination by artificial cool white fluorescent with light intensity of 2500 lux (35 µmol photon m-2 s-1). Chlorophyll a and total carotenoid contents were estimated using colorimetric methods, fatty acids composition was determined by GC-Mass, in vitro and in vivo anti-cholesterol assays were used in assessing the anti-hypercholesterolemia potential of obtained Spirulina cells.

RESULTS

The results showed that the highest cell dry weight, chlorophyl a, and carotenoid of S. platensis were observed in colorless flasks and that the lowest values were recorded with the green colored flasks. Also, the hot water extract of S. platensis obtained from colorless flasks at a concentration of 15 mg/mL after 60 min of incubation exhibited the greatest reduction of cholesterol level. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of S. platensis methanolic extract showed 15 bioactive compounds were identified and grouped according to their chemical structures. An experimental model of hypercholesterolemic mice had been examined for impact of S. platensis individually and combined with atorvastatin drug. All S. platensis groups resulted in a remarkable decrease in plasma total cholesterol, triglycerides and low density lipoprotein; and increase in high density lipoprotein.

CONCLUSION

The present study concluded that the hot aqueous extract of S. platensis developed in colorless flasks is recommended as a natural source for bioactive compounds, with anti-cholesterol and antioxidant potentialities.

Optimization of extraction flavonoids from Exocarpium Citri Grandis and evaluation its hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic activities

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Exocarpium Citri Grandis (ECG; Huajuhong in Chinese) is a precious traditional Chinese medicine with a history of hundreds of years in China. It has been demonstrated to possess numerous pharmacological properties, including antitussive, expectorant, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, and hypolipidemic. However, no in-depth report exists on the hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic properties of ECG.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to evaluate the hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic properties of ECG flavonoids extract in vitro and in vivo so as to lay the foundation for further researches in this field.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Total flavonoids (TF) and naringin were separately extracted from ECG, and the components of TF were identified by HPLC-MS. The antioxidant capacities of TF and naringin were determined by 2,2,1-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH)-free radical scavenging tests, and digestive enzymes activity inhibition assays in vitro in order to evaluate their hypoglycemic properties. Furthermore, diabetic mice experiments were performed to assess the hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic properties of TF and naringin in vivo.

RESULTS

Five compounds were identified from TF, including naringin, rhoifolin, poncirin, bergaptol, and naringenin. The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) of TF and naringin to DPPH-free radicals were 0.269 and 1.946 mg/mL, respectively. TF and naringin demonstrated a certain inhibitory effect on α-glucosidase and a weaker inhibitory effect on α-amylase. The results of animal experiments showed that TF and naringin had no significant effect on the blood glucose levels, but they could lead to significant (p < 0.05 or p < 0.01) increase in the serum insulin level and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels with concomitant reduction in the total cholesterol (TC), total triglycerides (TG), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels in diabetic mice. In addition, TF and naringin could reduce the liver index of diabetic mice (p < 0.01) and reduce the kidney index at low doses (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study revealed that the hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic activities of TF is mainly derived from naringin, and other active ingredients in TF also have the effects of alleviating oxidative stress, inhibiting digestive enzyme activity and reducing blood lipids. Our results thus provide a scientific basis for the application of ECG in antidiabetic treatment.

Anti-hyperglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of black ginseng extract containing increased Rh4, Rg5, and Rk1 content in muscle and liver of type 2 diabetic db/db mice

Black ginseng (BG), which is produced by repeated steaming and drying of fresh ginseng, has various pharmacological and therapeutic properties. This study investigated the anti-hyperglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of BG ethanolic extract in type 2 diabetic db/db mice. The levels of fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, insulin levels and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances values were decreased in the groups fed BG extract (BG) (100 and 900 mg/kg BW/day), compared to the control group (CON). In the BG compared with the CON, hepatic steatosis in the liver and the size of adipocytes in muscle tissue were improved. The administration of BG regulated the glucose transporter type (GLUT) 4 and 2, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) α and γ in muscle and liver. Moreover, ginsenosides (Rh4, Rg5, and Rk1), which profiled by HPLC, regulated the markers for lipid metabolism and glucose metabolism; PPARs and GLUTs in muscle and C2C12 rather than liver cells and tissue. These findings suggested that ginsenosides (Rh4, Rg5, and Rk1) from BG extract can ameliorate type 2 diabetes through their anti-hyperglycemic and hypolipidemic effects.

Influence of fermentation on antioxidant and hypolipidemic properties of maifanite mineral water-cultured common buckwheat sprouts

Buckwheat sprouts (BS) becomes popular due to its' health-promoting properties as food product. The effects of fermentation with Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Lactobacillus plantarum on antioxidant and hypolipidemic activities as well as functional composition in common BS cultivated in maifanite mineral water were investigated here. DPPH and ·OH results showed higher antioxidant potential in fermented BS compared to unfermented BS, due to the higher rutin, orientin, isoorientin, vitexin, isovitexin, and total phenolic and flavonoid contents. The S. cerevisiae-fermented BS also exhibited 113% and 110% higher DPPH and ·OH scavenging activities than the L. plantarum-fermented BS, respectively. In hyperlipidemic mice, blood lipid parameters were improved as dose-dependent manner when supplemented the food with S. cerevisiae-fermented BS. Fermented BS also restored liver antioxidant levels significantly. The fermented BS had greater effect on different parameters than those of unfermented BS. Therefore, fermentation is a valuable method to enhance the bioactive potential of BS.

Hypolipidemic effects of fucoidan fractions from Saccharina sculpera (Laminariales, Phaeophyceae)

Fucoidan is a kind of brown algae-derived macromolecule suggested to have hypolipidemic activity. Saccharina sculpera has attracted interest because it is rich in fucoidan. The monosaccharide composition and structural characteristics of isolated fractions (F1, F2 and F3) were determined using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR). The hypolipidemic effects of fucoidan fractions from Saccharina sculpera cultured in northern China were clarified by measuring cholesterol levels, antioxidative indicators and hepatic gene mRNA expression using an established hyperlipidemic Wistar rat model. The results showed that F1 is an acetylated galactofucan and that F2 consists of fucose, galactose, mannose and glucuronic acid. F3 is an acetylated galactofucan with high fucose. Fucoidan fractions from Saccharina sculpera could effectively reduce the level of lipids in serum by reducing the TG, TC, and LDL-C levels and increasing HDL-C levels and could effectively prevent lipid accumulation in the liver. The findings obtained from hepatic gene expression showed that fucoidan could inhibit cholesterol synthesis via downregulation of HMG-CoA-R and upregulation of LCAT, slow the synthesis of fatty acids via downregulation of SREBP-1c, and promote β-oxidation of fatty acids via upregulation of PPARα, PPARγ and LPL. These results demonstrated that the hypolipidemic activity of fucoidan was related to the inhibition of cholesterol synthesis and reverse transport, the regulation of fatty acid synthesis, and acceleration of mitochondrial β-oxidation.

The anti-diabetic and antioxidant effects of a combination of Commiphora mukul, Commiphora myrrha and Terminalia chebula in diabetic rats

OBJECTIVE

Effects of Commiphora mukul and Commiphora myrrha ethanolic extracts and Terminalia chebula hydro-ethanolic extract combination were evaluated in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male Wistar rats (n=48) were randomly assigned into: control; diabetic; diabetic+metformin (300 mg/kg); diabetic+dose 1 of herbal combination (438 mg/kg of C. mukul+214 mg/kg of C. myrrha+857 mg/kg of T. chebula); diabetic+dose 2 (642 mg/kg of C. mukul+214 mg/kg of C. myrrha+642 mg/kg of T. chebula); and diabetic+dose 3 (857 mg/kg of C. mukul+438 mg/kg of C. myrrha+1714 mg/kg t of T. chebula). All treatments were given orally by gavage. Diabetes was induced by STZ (60 mg/kg, i.p.). At the end of study (day 28), blood glucose, insulin and lipid profile; as well as hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA) and thiol content, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities were determined.

RESULTS

In diabetic rats, plasma glucose, triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and LDL-C, as well as hepatic MDA levels were elevated but plasma HDL-C and insulin, and hepatic thiol content and SOD and CAT activities were reduced compared to control (p<0.01-p<0.001). In diabetic+dose 3, plasma TC, TG, and LDL-C and hepatic MDA level decreased (p<0.001), while plasma HDL-C and insulin, and hepatic thiol content, and SOD and CAT activities increased compared to diabetic (p<0.01-p<0.001). Treatment with dose 1 and 2 improved such abnormalities in diabetic rats except for insulin level (p<0.05-p<0.001). The herbal combination effects were comparable to those of metformin. Metformin did not significantly change serum insulin and HDL-C levels, and hepatic SOD activity; however, serum levels of TC, TG, and LDL-C, as well as hepatic MDA levels, thiol content and CAT activity were improved compared to diabetic (p<0.05-p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that this herbal combination acts as an anti-diabetic, antioxidant and hypolipidemic agent and it may be suggested as a beneficial remedy for diabetic patients.

An overview of fungal glycan-based therapeutics

Edible medicinal mushrooms have been traditionally used for health promotion and longevity in China and other East Asian countries for centuries. Structural and pharmacological studies revealed that fungal glycans show multiple physiological and healthy promoting effects including immunomodulation, anti-tumor, anti-aging, anti-oxidation, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, anti-radiation, and other effects. Fungal glycans isolated from different kinds of medicinal mushrooms are partially purified and clinically tested. Without serious safety concerns of mostly glycans from edible mushrooms and/or the cultured mycelium, eight of them are approved by Chinese Food and Drug Administration (SFDA) and used clinically in China since 1980s. In this chapter, 185 independent studies involving in biochemical, pharmacological and clinical studies of fungal glycans during the past four decades (1977-2019) from PubMed, CNKI (China National Knowledge Infrastructure) and Wanfang databases are summarized. In future, understanding the fungal glycan-based drugs at molecular biological level would be needed to comprehend the clinical efficacy of glycan-based drugs.

Data on in vivo antioxidant, hypolipidemic and hepatoprotective potential of Thaumatococcus daniellii (Benn.) Benth leaves

This data article reports on the in vivo biochemical activity of ethanolic extract of Thaumatococcus daniellii (Benn.) Benth leaves (ETD) in male Wistar rats at an oral dose of 500–1500 mg/kg daily for 14 days. Control groups were administered distilled water and Vitamin C (10 mg/kg; b.wt). Indices of oxidative stress, dyslipidemia, liver injury and liver pathology were estimated in the plasma and organs after the investigation period. Oral treatment with ETD increased organ superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, renal reduced glutathione (GSH) and plasma high density lipoprotein (HDL) concentrations while reducing plasma alanine transaminase (ALT) activity, plasma cholesterol (CHOL), bilirubin (DBIL) and organ malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations (P<0.05). Data was supported by histological report showing no pathologic abnormality. This data indicate ethanolic extract of T. daniellii leaves shows antioxidant, hypolipidemic and hepatoprotective potential.

Antimycobacterial and hypolipemiant activities of Bidens odorata (Cavanilles)

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Bidens odorata Cavanilles is a medicinal and edible plant known as "mozote blanco, aceitilla, acahual, mozoquelite" which is traditionally used in Mexico as a diuretic, hypoglycaemic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, antitussive, to treat gastrointestinal disorders, kidney pain, and lung or respiratory diseases.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This research study was aimed at phytochemical analysis of aerial extracts of B. odorata for antimycobacterial and lipid-lowering activities.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Compounds 1 (((2R, 3R, 4S, 5S, 6R)-3,4,5-Tryhidroxy-6-(((E)-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl) acryloyl) oxy) tetrahydro-2H-pyran-2-yl) methyl-4-hydroxybenzoate) and 2 (3,5-Dihydroxybenzoic acid) were isolated from B. odorata aerial shoots and their structural elucidation was carried out using 1 and 2D NMR, infrared spectroscopy (IR) and mass spectrometry (ESI-MS). The antimycobacterial activity of various extracts and compounds 1 and 2 was determined using the Microplate Alamar Blue Assay (MABA). The evaluation of the hypolipidemic effect of the ethanolic extract and the glycosylated compound 1 was tested in a murine model of hypercholesterolemia induced by diet and by Triton WR-1339. On the other hand, the LD₅₀ of the ethanolic extract was evaluated in ICR mice by the OECD protocol TG 423.

RESULTS

Antimycobacterial assay of hexane, CH₂Cl₂, EtOAc, ethanolic and aqueous extracts, as well as the new glycosidic compound 1 and benzoic acid derivative 2 isolated from B. odorata showed minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of 100, 12.5, 12.5, 12.5, ≥200, 3.125 and 50 μg/mL, respectively, against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv. Only hexane and CH₂Cl₂ extracts were observed to be active against Mycobacterium smegmatis mc²155 at a concentration of 50 and 100 μg/mL, respectively. The ethanolic extract showed lipid-lowering activity at doses of 100 and 1000 mg/kg, while glycosidic compound 1 was active at doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg. In addition, the LD₅₀ of the ethanolic extract was >2000 mg/kg, meaning that this extract does not cause lethality or adverse effects, and no signs of organs alterations or tissue damage were observed.

CONCLUSION

The hexane, CH₂Cl₂, EtOAc, and ethanolic extracts of B. odorata, as well as their components 1 and 2, displayed antimycobacterial activity against M. tuberculosis. Moreover, the ethanolic extract and glycosidic compound 1 showed an important lipid-lowering effect, without lethality or secondary effect. The results of this study support the documented traditional use for B. odorata.

A new multifunctional hydroxytyrosol-clofibrate with hypolipidemic, antioxidant, and hepatoprotective effects

Oxidative stress has been regarded as the leading mechanism of the hepatotoxicity of clofibrate (CF). To achieve multifunctional novel hypolipidemic agents with hypolipidemia, antioxidant, and ameliorating liver injury, clofibric acid derivative hydroxytyrosol-clofibrate (CF-HT) was synthesized by molecular hybridization. CF-HT exhibited significant hypolipidemia, reducing serum triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and malonaldehyde (MDA) by 30%, 33%, and 29% in hyperlipidemic mice induced by Triton WR 1339. CF-HT also shown hepatoprotective effect, a significant decrease in hepatic indices toxicity was observed, i.e. aspartate and lactate transaminases (AST and ALT) activities, alkalines phosphatases (ALP), and total bilirubin (TBIL) levels. The liver weight and liver coefficient were also ameliorated. Serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) was significantly elevated, and serum catalase (CAT) and malondialdehyde (MDA) content were remarkably restored. The hepatic glutathione (GSH) content was obviously increased and hepatic oxidized glutathione (GSSG) content was reduced dramatically by CF-HT, as compared to the CF treated mice (p < 0.05). Moreover, the histopathological damage that hepatocyte hyperplasia and hypertrophy was also significantly ameliorated by treatment with CF-HT. Therefore, the results indicated that CF-HT exerted more potent hypolipidemic activity and definite hepatoprotective effect which may mainly be associated with its antioxidative property in mice.

Structural Basis of Bioactivity of Food Peptides in Promoting Metabolic Health

Bioactive peptides have many structural features that enable them to become functional in controlling several biological processes in the body, especially those related to metabolic health. This chapter provides an overview of the multiple targets of food-derived peptides against metabolic health problems (e.g., hypertension, dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, oxidative stress) and discusses the importance of structural chemistry in determining the bioactivities of peptides and protein hydrolysates.

Nimbolide attenuate the lipid accumulation, oxidative stress and antioxidant in primary hepatocytes

Nimbolide is a bioactive compound found in Azadirachta indica. This work was devised to investigate the potential effects of nimbolide on intracellular lipid deposition and its associated redox modulation in primary hepatocytes (Heps). Lipid accumulation was induced in Heps by supplementing 1 mM oleic acid for 24 h which was marked by significant accumulation of lipids. The results demonstrated that nimbolide can decrease intracellular cholesterol, free fatty acids and triglycerides. Nimbolide may also improve hepatocytes function through its antioxidant effects by inhibiting oxidative DNA damage and lipid peroxidation by curtailing the reactive oxygen species levels. Further it also restore the mitochondrial potential, improving the endogenous antioxidant levels such as GSH and antioxidant enzyme activities. Nimbolide increased (P < 0.05) liver X receptor-α (LXRα), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) and sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1c (SREBP1c) gene expression in Heps. The biological significance of nimbolide may involve hypolipidemic effect, lipid peroxidation inhibition, DNA damage inhibition, ROS inhibition, restoring mitochondrial function, increases in GSH and SOD & CAT activities, and direct regulation of LXRα, PPARγ and SREBP1c gene expression. Nimbolide may be used as effective lipid lowering compound and lipid deposition-induced Heps changes.

Medicinal properties of mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana L.): A comprehensive update

Garcinia mangostana L. (Clusiaceae) is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia known as mangosteen which fruits possess a distinctive and pleasant taste that has granted them the epithet of "queen of the fruits". The seeds and pericarps of the fruit have a long history of use in the traditional medicinal practices of the region, and beverages containing mangosteen pulp and pericarps are sold worldwide as nutritional supplements. The main phytochemicals present in the species are isoprenylated xanthones, a class of secondary metabolites with multiple reports of biological effects, such as antioxidant, pro-apoptotic, anti-proliferative, antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, hypoglycemic and anti-obesity. The diversity of actions displayed by mangosteen xanthones shows that these compounds target multiple signaling pathways involved in different pathologies, and place them as valuable sources for developing new drugs to treat chronic and degenerative diseases. This review article presents a comprehensive update of the toxicological findings on animal models, and the preclinical anticancer, analgesic, neuroprotective, antidiabetic and hypolipidemic effects of G. mangostana L. extracts and its main isolates. Pharmacokinetics, drug delivery systems and reports on dose-finding human trials are also examined.

Flavanols from the Camellia sinensis var. assamica and their hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic activities

α-Glucosidase and lipase inhibitors play important roles in the treatment of hyperglycaemia and dyslipidemia. To identify novel naturally occurring inhibitors, a bioactivity-guided phytochemical research was performed on the pu-erh tea. One new flavanol, named (–)-epicatechin-3-O-(Z)-coumarate (1), and 16 known analogs (2—17) were isolated from the aqueous extract of the pu-erh tea. Their structures were determined by spectroscopic and chemical methods. Furthermore, the water extract of pu-erh tea and its fractions exhibited inhibitory activities against α-glucosidases and lipases in vitro; compound 15 showed moderate inhibitory effect against sucrase with an IC₅₀ value of 32.5 μmol/L and significant inhibitory effect against maltase with an IC₅₀ value of 1.3 μmol/L. Compounds 8, 10, 11 and 15 displayed moderate activity against a lipase with IC₅₀ values of 16.0, 13.6, 19.8, and 13.3 μmol/L, respectively.

Hypolipidemic, antioxidant and anti-atherosclerogenic effect of aqueous extract leaves of Cassia. occidentalis Linn (Caesalpiniaceae) in diet-induced hypercholesterolemic rats

BACKGROUND

Hyperlipidemia and oxidative stress are major risk factors for atherosclerosis, and all three are among the most important risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. Cassia occidentalis aqueous extract has been used in African traditional medicine for the treatment of hypertension and associated cardiovascular diseases. This study was undertaken to evaluate the hypolipidemic and anti-atherosclerotic properties of the aqueous extract of the leaves of C. occidentalis in rats with hypercholesterolemia (HC). Sixty Normocholesterolemic (NC) male rats were divided into six groups (n = 10) and fed a high-cholesterol (HC) diet for 30 days (5 groups), or normal rat chow (normal control group). The plant extract was administered to animals at the increasing dose of 240, 320 and 400 mg/kg. After 4 weeks of treatment 5 rats out of 10 were sacrificed, blood samples, aorta, liver, and fresh faecal were collected and processed for biochemical tests. The experiments were conducted under the same conditions with a group of rat treated with Atorvastatin (1 mg/kg), used positive control. The effects of C. occidentalis on weight gain, water and food consumptions, levels of serum lipids and lipoprotein lipid oxidation and stress markers in blood and liver were also examined.

RESULTS

A significant body weight gain was observed in general in all the group of animals without any treatment after 4 weeks. During the treatment period, the C. occidentalis extract induced a significant increase (P < 0.01) in water consumption and food intakes. After 4 weeks of treatment with hypercholesterolemia, the body temperature and organ weights including the liver, kidney, heart and the testis did not present any significant change. The administration of C. occidentalis extract significantly (p < 0.05) prevented the elevation in TC, LDL-C, VLDL-C, hepatic and aortic TG and TC. The atherogenic, triglycerides, and lipid peroxidation (TBARS) index were also decreased in the rats treated with the plant extract. C. occidentalis favoured the performance of faecal cholesterol. It also significantly inhibited the changes and the formation of aortic atherosclerotic plaques.

CONCLUSION

This study provides evidence of hypolipidemic and antiatherosclerotic effects of C. occidentalis extract. C. occidenntalis aqueous extract reduced bad cholesterols, triglycerides and increasing good cholesterols in rats subjected to a feeding regime enriched with cholesterol. The results support the traditional use of the extract of this plant in the treatment of hypertension and diabetes.

The Hypoglycemic, Hypolipidemic, and Anti-Diabetic Nephritic Activities of Zeaxanthin in Diet-Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Sprague Dawley Rats

Zeaxanthin (ZA), an important compound found in Lycium barbarum, shows various pharmacodynamic effects. In our present study, a high-fat, high-sucrose diet and streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rat model was used to investigate the antidiabetic activities of ZA. After a 4-week administration of 200 and 400 mg/kg of ZA and 100 mg/kg of metformin hydrochloride, various blood biochemical indexes were detected. ZA strongly normalized the reduced bodyweight and enhanced fasting blood glucose in diabetic rats. The positive data obtained from the oral glucose tolerance test further confirmed its antidiabetic effects. ZA displayed significant hypolipidemic activities indicated by its modulation of serum levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, and total cholesterol. The antidiabetic nephropathy of ZA was confirmed by its regulation of pathological kidney structures, urine levels of n-acetyl-β-d-glucosaminidase and albuminuria, and serum levels of urea nitrogen. ZA inhibited the serum levels of inflammatory factors including interleukin-2 (IL-2), IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, and nuclear factor kappa B, further confirming its renal protection. Moreover, the serum imbalances in superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, methane dicarboxylic aldehyde, and catalase were normalized by ZA, suggesting its antioxidant properties. Altogether, ZA produced hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, and antidiabetic nephritic effects in a diet-STZ-induced diabetic rat model.

In-vitro and In-vivo Hypolipidemic Activity of Spinach Roots and Flowers

This study was designed in order to correlate the flavonoid and lipoidal matters content of Spinach roots and flowers to their hypolipidemic potential. The total flavonoid content was measured via complexation with aluminum chloride while determination of fatty acids methyl esters and unsaponifiable matters in both organs was performed using GC/MS. In an in-vitro study, the crude ethanol extracts of both organs and their different fractions were separately examined for inhibition of β-hydroxy-β-methyl glutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMG-CoA reductase); the rate limiting enzyme of cholesterol biosynthesis. The percentage inhibition of alcohol extracts of roots and flowers were 78.19% and 72.68% respectively when compared to the control. The crude alcohol extracts of both organs were further examined in-vivo. Results showed that both extracts improved the investigated parameters by variable degrees compared to fenofibrate reference drug. The root extract showed significant improvement of TC, HDL-C, LDL-C, TG and total lipids (52.75, 209.85, 21.84, 49.26 and 29.62% respectively) when compared to hypercholesterolemic rats. The histopathological picture of liver showed a noticeable amelioration after treatment with root extract. The flavonoid content was higher in flower than root (983.4 and 300.2 mg/kg respectively) while the percentage of sterols and triterpenes in roots was greater than flowers (22.47% and 17.02 % respectively). In conclusion, the root ethanolic extract recorded more potent activity than flower as hypolipidemic agent either in-vitro or in-vivo examination which was more correlated to the sterol content than to the flavonoid content.

Hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic activities of a oleanolic acid derivative from Malva parviflora on streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice

One new oleanolic acid derivative, 2α,3β,23α,29α tetrahydroxyolean-12(13)-en-28-oic acid (1) was isolated from the aerial parts of Malva parviflora. Their structure was characterized by spectroscopic methods. The hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic activities of 1 was analyzed in in streptozotocin (STZ)-nicotinamide-induced type 2 diabetes in mice (MD) and type 1 diabetes in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice (SD). Triterpene was administered orally at doses of 20 mg/kg for 4 weeks. Organ weight, body weight, glucose, fasting insulin, cholesterol-related lipid profile parameters, glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT), glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), serum alkaline phosphatase (SALP), glucokinase, hexokinase, glucose-6-phosphatase activities and glycogen in liver were measured after 4 weeks of treatment. The results indicated that 1 regulate glucose metabolism, lipid profile, lipid peroxidation, increased body weight, glucokinase and hexokinase activities inhibited triglycerides, total cholesterol, low density lipoproteins level, SGOT, SGPT, SALP, glycogen in liver and glucose-6-phosphatase. In addition, improvement of insulin resistance and protective effect for pancreatic β-cells, also 1 may changes the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokine (IL-6 and TNF-α levels) and enzymes (PAL2, COX-2, and LOX). The results suggest that 1 has hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic, anti-inflammatory, activities, improve insulin resistance and hepatic enzymes in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice.

Hypolipidemic, antiobesity and cardioprotective effects of sardinelle meat flour and its hydrolysates in high-fat and fructose diet fed Wistar rats

AIMS

The present study aims to evaluate the antiobesity, hypolipidemic and cardioprotective effects of fermented sardinelle (Sardinella aurita) protein hydrolysates (FSPHs) produced with two proteolytic bacteria, Bacillus subtilis A26 (FSPH-A26) and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens An6 (FSPH-An6).

MAIN METHODS

Wistar rats were fed during 10weeks a standard laboratory diet, a high caloric diet (HCD) and a HCD coupled with the oral administration of sardinelle meat flour (SMF) or FSPHs.

KEY FINDINGS

HCD caused hyperlipidemia and increased body weight (BW). The daily oral administration of FSPHs or SMF reduced the total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) serum levels, and increased the level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c). Nevertheless, FSPHs were found to be more efficient than SMF. FSPHs also lowered hepatic TC and TG content and decreased the pancreatic lipase activity. Further, the administration of FSPHs or SMF decreased the BW gain, the food intake and the relative epididymal adipose tissue weight. FSPHs exhibited a potent cardioprotective effect against heart attack, which was demonstrated by returning atherogenic indexes to their normal levels and the conservation of standard histological structure of the heart and aorta.

SIGNIFICANCE

The overall results indicate that FSPHs contained bioactive peptides which significantly attenuated hyperlipidemia, and might reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in rats fed HCD.

Isolated flavonoids from Ficus racemosa stem bark possess antidiabetic, hypolipidemic and protective effects in albino Wistar rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ficus racemosa (FR) has been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic system of medicine in India and is closely associated with prevention, treatment and cure of various human ailments like obesity and diabetes. It is popularly known as gular. A vast and wide range of chemical compounds like polyphenols, friedelane-type triterpenes, norfriedelane type triterpene, eudesmane-type sesquiterpene including various glycosides had been isolated from this plant. However, no detail studies related to isolation of flavonoids has been reported previously with their antidiabetic, hypolipidemic and toxicological consequences.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study was undertaken to evaluate antidiabetic, hypolipidemic and toxicological assessments of flavonoids isolated from Ficus racemosa (FR) stem bark.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We isolated four flavonoids from stem bark of FR and structures were confirmed by Infrared spectroscopy (IR), Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) (both 1D and 2D), mass spectroscopy (MS). Later, these flavonoids were administered to streptozotocin (STZ) rats once in a day for a period of seven days at 100mg/kg dose. We measured blood glucose level and body weight changes at different days (1st, 3rd, 5th and 7th days). Serum lipid profiles were also estimated to investigate the hypolipidemic potential of flavonoids in the similar experiment. Various oxidative stress parameters in pancreas and liver and hepatic biomarker enzymes in plasma were also determined to investigate the toxicity potential of isolated flavonoids. Finally, we performed docking studies to find out the mechanism of action.

RESULTS

Our results collectively suggested that four flavonoids reduced blood glucose level and restored body weight, signifying antidiabetic action. There were reduction of other lipid profile parameters and increase of high density lipoprotein (HDL) during administration of flavonoids, also signifying hypolipidemic action. Various oxidative stress biomarkers and hepatic enzymes levels were also normalized with respect to diabetic control at the same time. Docking studies revealed that isolated flavonoids showed their antidiabetic potential via binding to PPARγ and GLUT1 receptors.

CONCLUSION

The isolated four flavonoids demonstrated good antidiabetic, hypolipidemic and antioxidant properties in STZ diabetic rats which supported the use of FR stem bark as useful supplementary drug for future antidiabetic therapy.

Multi-drug intoxication fatality involving atorvastatin: A case report

Mixed antihypertensive drug intoxication poses a significant risk for patient mortality. In tandem to antihypertensives, hypolipidemic medicines (especially statins) are often prescribed. Among their well-known adverse effects belongs rhabdomyolysis. We report a case of fatal multi-drug overdose in a 65-year-old female alcoholic. The patient was unconscious at admission. Empty blister packs indicated the abuse of 250 tablets of urapidil, 42 tablets of verapamil/trandolapril, 50 tablets of moxonidin, 80 tablets of atorvastatin and 80 tablets of diacerein. Standard measures (gastric lavage, activated charcoal, mechanical ventilation, massive doses of vasopressors, volume expansion, diuretics and alkalinization) failed to provide sufficient drug elimination and hemodynamic support and the sufferer deceased on the fourth day. Dramatic elevations of serum myoglobin (34,020 μg/L) and creatine kinase (219 μkat/L) were accompanied by rise in cardiac troponin I and creatinine. Gas chromatography revealed ethanol 1.17 g/kg (blood) and 2.81 g/kg (urine). Thin layer chromatography and gas chromatography of gastric content and urine verified verapamil, moxonidin and urapidil fragment (diacerein method was unavailable). Atorvastatin and trandolapril concentrations (LC-MS(n)) equaled 277.7 μg/L and 57.5 μg/L, resp. (serum) and 8.15 μg/L and 602.3 μg/L, resp. (urine). Histology confirmed precipitates of myoglobin with acute necrosis of proximal renal tubules in association with striated muscle rhabdomyolysis and myocardial dystrophy. Cardiogenic-distributive shock in conjunction with acute renal failure due to the combined self-poisoning with vasoactive agents and atorvastatin were determined to be this decedent's immediate cause of death. The manner of death was assigned to be suicidal.